Among those who are troubled by poor eyesight, some may have heard the term “ICL”.
While ICL is known as a surgery to treat nearsightedness and farsightedness, did you know that it can actually correct astigmatism as well?
In this article, we will introduce the mechanism by which ICL surgery can correct astigmatism, as well as the benefits and points of caution regarding the treatment, in an easy-to-understand manner.
【What exactly is astigmatism?】
Astigmatism refers to a state in which light cannot focus correctly on the retina (the part that acts like a screen for seeing objects) due to the distorted shape of the “cornea” or “crystalline lens” inside the eye.
Because of this, objects may appear blurred or lines may appear double.
For example, even when looking at a straight utility pole, the outline may appear blurred. That is a symptom of astigmatism.
If astigmatism is mild, it does not interfere much with life, but if it becomes moderate or severe, the vision becomes unclear and affects daily life.
【What kind of surgery is ICL surgery?】
ICL stands for “Implantable Collamer Lens,” and to put it simply, it is “a surgery to place a thin, special lens inside the eye”.
This lens is inserted into the interior of the eye without shaving the cornea to correct vision.
【Mechanism for correcting astigmatism with ICL surgery】
The main cause of astigmatism is that the shape of the cornea or crystalline lens is “not uniform”.
To compensate for this distortion, a lens for astigmatism (called a “Toric ICL”) is used.
A special power is incorporated into this lens to prevent the diffuse reflection of light, adjusting the distortion of the eye and making the vision clear.
The lens is fixed in a precise position inside the eye and matched perfectly to the angle and power of the astigmatism, enabling higher precision correction than general glasses or contact lenses.
【Benefits of treating astigmatism with ICL】
- ・High safety because the cornea is not shaved
In ICL surgery, there is no need to shave the cornea.
Therefore, surgery is possible even for people with thin corneas or those who have been told they cannot undergo.
- ・High visual acuity correction effect
By using a Toric ICL, even strong astigmatism can be firmly corrected.
Since the lenses are prepared according to each individual’s power and eye size, vision improvement that perfectly fits each person’s eyes can be expected.
- ・Removable
Even if vision changes in the future or if cataracts develop, the ICL lens can be removed.
This “reversible” feature provides a sense of security not found in other surgeries.
- ・Maintains stable vision for a long period
Because the lens is fixed inside the eye, there is no worry about it shifting, and vision remains stable.
Furthermore, visual clarity can be maintained over a long period.
- ・Less likely to cause dry eye
Because the cornea is not shaved, the risk of dry eye, which often occurs after LASIK, can be reduced.
【Points of caution and key points】
- ・Surgery costs are high
ICL surgery is more expensive compared to glasses, contact lenses, and even LASIK surgery.
However, in terms of stabilizing vision in the long run, it can be said to be a worthwhile investment.
Additionally, since Toric ICLs are somewhat more expensive, the surgery cost may also be set higher.
- ・Cases where lens adjustment is necessary
Depending on the power and angle of the astigmatism, additional adjustments may be required after surgery.
In the unlikely event that astigmatism remains after surgery, the doctor will handle it properly, so please feel free to consult us with peace of mind.
【Flow of treating astigmatism with ICL surgery】
- 1. Suitability test
The doctor examines the condition of the eyes and confirms whether ICL can be applied.
At our clinic, this is conducted in two separate sessions: the suitability test and the test to determine lens power.
- 2. Creation of custom-made lenses
We order lenses tailored to your eyes.This may take several weeks to several months.
- 3. Day of surgery
Surgery at our clinic is completed in about 10 to 15 minutes.Since anesthesia is used, you will feel almost no pain.
- 4. Postoperative examination
After surgery, follow the doctor’s instructions, use eye drops, and undergo regular examinations.
【Summary: ICL surgery is a new option for astigmatism treatment】
ICL surgery is an effective method not only for nearsightedness and farsightedness but also for treating astigmatism.
In particular, by using a Toric ICL, even high-degree astigmatism can be corrected with high precision.
Furthermore, it is attractive because it is highly safe as it does not shave the cornea, and the postoperative vision is stable.
If you are feeling inconvenienced by glasses or contact lenses, or if you have concerns such as being unable to undergo LASIK, why not try consulting an ophthalmologist?
Our clinic regularly holds free briefing sessions on.
Please feel free to consult us.